Plan your dream trip based on your interests: Adventure Seeking! 🧗🏼
I can’t tell you how many times we’ve booked super chill, relaxing-by-the-beach vacation getaways for clients. With the crazy hustle and bustle of everyday life, escaping to a tropical paradise and sipping a mojito by the beach sounds like a dream. And, it is!
….for most people.
But then, every so often, we get those clients who have a few days to play with, and they want to fit as much as they possibly can into it.
We’re talking mountain biking, rock climbing, zip-lining, horseback riding, night hiking, and that’s just day ONE! 🫢
Here at Insignia Destinations, we love planning a relaxing vacation that allows you to unwind and decompress 🌴
But it is kinda fun when we have the opportunity to plan something a little more…...active 😉
If this sounds like the kind of getaway you’re looking for, look no further. This blog post will break down the best places to go to indulge in your thrill-seeking fantasies, complete with a list of activities!
Starting with…
👉🏼 NEPAL
Nepal, the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers, is like the Disneyland of adventure lovers. Tucked between India and China, it's not your average vacation spot – it's full of unique and exciting experiences. With the Himalayas as its epic backdrop, Nepal offers more adrenaline kicks than your morning coffee ☕
It's the kind of place where your vacation photos double as extreme sports highlights. But hey, it's not all about the heart-pounding stuff; there's also the bonus of discovering ancient temples, friendly locals, and the birthplace of Buddha. So, if your idea of a perfect holiday involves a dash of danger and a sprinkle of spirituality, Nepal is your go-to adventure wonderland!
So, what options do you have?
Well…
Everest Base Camp Trek:
Description: Embark on a challenging trek to Everest Base Camp, immersing yourself in the stunning Himalayan landscapes, Sherpa culture, and reaching the base of the world's highest peak.
Where to Do It: Khumbu region, Everest Base Camp.
How to Reserve: Plan your trek with reputable trekking agencies such as Himalayan Glacier (https://www.himalayanglacier.com/) or Nepal Eco Adventure (https://nepalecoadventure.com/).
Paragliding in Pokhara:
Description: Soar like a bird above Phewa Lake and the Annapurna Range in Pokhara, experiencing the thrill of paragliding with breathtaking aerial views.
Where to Do It: Pokhara.
How to Reserve: Book your paragliding adventure with companies like Sunrise Paragliding (https://www.paragliding-nepal.com/) or Blue Sky Paragliding (https://www.paragliding-nepal.com/).
Bungee Jumping in The Last Resort:
Description: Take a leap off a suspension bridge into the gorge of the Bhote Koshi River, experiencing one of the world's most thrilling bungee jumps.
Where to Do It: The Last Resort, near the Nepal-Tibet border.
How to Reserve: Reserve your bungee jumping experience with The Last Resort (https://www.thelastresort.com.np/).
Rafting in the Trishuli River:
Description: Navigate the exhilarating rapids of the Trishuli River, offering a perfect blend of adventure and stunning scenery.
Where to Do It: Trishuli River.
How to Reserve: Plan your white water rafting adventure with companies like Nepal River Runner (https://www.raftinginnepal.com/) or Outdoor Himalayan Treks (https://www.outdoorhimalayan.com/).
Mountain Biking in the Annapurna Circuit:
Description: Ride through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, on the Annapurna Circuit, one of the world's classic mountain biking trails.
Where to Do It: Annapurna Circuit.
How to Reserve: Organize your mountain biking adventure with agencies like Himalayan Single Track (https://himalayansingletrack.com/) or Sacred Summits (https://www.sacredsummits.com/).
Rock Climbing in Nagarjun Forest Reserve:
Description: Climb natural rock faces amidst the scenic Nagarjun Forest Reserve, offering a thrilling rock climbing experience near Kathmandu.
Where to Do It: Nagarjun Forest Reserve.
How to Reserve: Arrange your rock climbing adventure with companies like Astrek Climbing Wall (https://www.astrekclimbing.com/) or the Nepal Mountaineering Association (https://www.nepalmountaineering.org/).
👉🏼 New Zealand
New Zealand, the land of hobbits and heart-stopping scenery 😍
Tucked away in the South Pacific, it's not just about kiwis and rugby (though they take both very seriously).
With more sheep than people, it's a place where the landscapes are so stunning, they make postcards jealous. It's a country where the adventure is as wild as the landscapes, and even the sheep seem to have a taste for adrenaline. Whether you're into epic hikes, extreme sports, or just hanging out with friendly locals, New Zealand is the kind of place that leaves you wondering why you didn't visit sooner.
So, what options do you have?
Well…
Bungee Jumping in Queenstown:
Description: Take a leap of faith off iconic sites like the Kawarau Bridge or the Nevis Highwire Platform, experiencing the ultimate thrill of free-fall and rebound.
Where to Do It: Queenstown, South Island.
How to Reserve: Book your bungee adventure with AJ Hackett Bungy (https://www.bungy.co.nz/queenstown/) or the Nevis Bungy (https://www.bungy.co.nz/nevis/).
Skydiving over Lake Taupo:
Description: Dive from an airplane and freefall over the stunning landscapes of Lake Taupo, enjoying breathtaking views of New Zealand's North Island.
Where to Do It: Lake Taupo.
How to Reserve: Reserve your skydiving experience with Skydive Taupo (https://www.skydivetaupo.co.nz/) or Nzone Skydive (https://www.nzoneskydive.co.nz/taupo/).
White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River:
Description: Conquer the exhilarating rapids of the Kaituna River, including the famous Tutea Falls, the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall.
Where to Do It: Rotorua, North Island.
How to Reserve: Plan your white water rafting adventure with Kaitiaki Adventures (https://www.kaitiaki.co.nz/) or River Rats Rafting (https://www.riverrats.co.nz/).
Heli-Skiing in the Southern Alps:
Description: Access untouched powder slopes by helicopter in the remote Southern Alps, providing an adrenaline-charged skiing or snowboarding experience.
Where to Do It: Southern Alps, South Island.
How to Reserve: Book your heli-skiing adventure with Harris Mountains Heli-Ski (https://www.heliski.co.nz/) or Southern Lakes Heliski (https://www.southernlakesheliski.com/).
Zorbing in Rotorua:
Description: Roll down a hill inside a giant, transparent orb, experiencing the unique and fun activity of zorbing.
Where to Do It: Rotorua, North Island.
How to Reserve: Try zorbing with OGO Rotorua (https://www.ogo.co.nz/) for an unforgettable, gravity-defying adventure.
Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing:
Description: Embark on one of New Zealand's most famous hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, featuring volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and panoramic views.
Where to Do It: Tongariro National Park, North Island.
How to Reserve: While the hike itself is free, you can join guided tours with companies like Adrift Tongariro (https://www.adriftnz.co.nz/) for added convenience and safety.
👉🏼 COSTA RICA
Costa Rica, the small Central American gem, is like the Chuck Norris of vacation spots—it packs a punch!
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, this tropical paradise is more than just pristine beaches and friendly sloths. Costa Rica is a playground for thrill-seekers 🛝
The country's commitment to eco-tourism is serious business, so you can explore while keeping Mother Nature happy 🍃 With volcanoes to hike, wildlife to spot, and coffee to sip (because adventure starts with caffeine, right?), Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for those who like their vacations with an extra shot of excitement and a side of pura vida vibes.
So, what options do you have?
Well…
Zip Lining in Monteverde:
Description: Soar through the treetops of Monteverde Cloud Forest on zip lines, enjoying an adrenaline-pumping adventure with stunning rainforest views.
Where to Do It: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
How to Reserve: Book zip-lining tours through companies like Selvatura Park (https://selvatura.com/) or Sky Adventures (https://www.skyadventures.travel/).
White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River:
Description: Navigate through thrilling rapids amidst the Pacuare River's pristine rainforest surroundings, experiencing the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting.
Where to Do It: Pacuare River.
How to Reserve: Plan your rafting adventure with Ríos Tropicales (https://www.riostropicales.com/) or Exploradores Outdoors (https://exploradoresoutdoors.com/).
Surfing in Tamarindo:
Description: Catch the perfect wave in Tamarindo, a popular surf spot with consistent breaks suitable for all skill levels.
Where to Do It: Tamarindo Beach.
How to Reserve: Book surf lessons or rentals through Witch's Rock Surf Camp (https://witchsrocksurfcamp.com/) or Iguana Surf School (https://iguanasurf.net/).
Arenal Volcano Hike and Hot Springs:
Description: Hike around the base of Arenal Volcano and unwind in natural hot springs, combining adventure with relaxation.
Where to Do It: Arenal Volcano area.
How to Reserve: Explore volcano tours and hot spring experiences with Desafio Adventure (https://www.desafiocostarica.com/) or Arenal Mundo Aventura (https://www.arenalmundoaventura.com/).
Canyoning in the Lost Canyon:
Description: Challenge yourself with canyoning in the Lost Canyon near La Fortuna, rappelling down waterfalls and navigating through narrow canyons.
Where to Do It: Lost Canyon, near La Fortuna.
How to Reserve: Schedule your canyoning adventure with Pure Trek (https://puretrek.com/) or Arenal Desafio Adventure Company (https://www.arenal.net/arenal-desafio).
Wildlife Safari in Corcovado National Park:
Description: Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems of Corcovado National Park, encountering a variety of wildlife on an adventurous safari.
Where to Do It: Corcovado National Park.
How to Reserve: Plan your wildlife safari with Costa Rica Expeditions (https://www.costaricaexpeditions.com/) or Osa Wild (https://www.osawildtravel.com/).
👉🏼 Cape Town, South Africa
Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa, a vibrant city situated at the southern tip of the continent, flaunting Table Mountain as its iconic backdrop.
With a history as rich as the coffee at its local cafes, Cape Town has evolved from a colonial settlement to a dynamic metropolis. But hey, it's not all about the past – this city knows how to keep things exciting for the present-day adventurer. Thrill seekers, listen up!
From abseiling down Table Mountain to facing off with sharks in the ocean, Cape Town is not your average stroll-in-the-park kind of place. You can experience things here you would have never thought possible!
So, what options do you have?
Well…
Table Mountain Abseiling:
Description: Experience the thrill of descending Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, through exhilarating abseiling. Enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean as you descend.
Where to Do It: Table Mountain.
How to Reserve: Book your abseiling adventure with reputable companies like Abseil Africa (https://abseilafrica.co.za/) or Table Mountain Abseiling (https://abseilafrica.co.za/).
Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai:
Description: Get up close and personal with one of the ocean's top predators, the great white shark. Dive into a submerged cage in the waters of Gansbaai for a thrilling and unforgettable shark encounter.
Where to Do It: Gansbaai (about 2 hours from Cape Town).
How to Reserve: Plan your shark cage diving experience with companies like White Shark Ventures (https://www.sharkcagediving.net/) or Sharklady Adventures (https://sharklady.co.za/).
Kloofing in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve:
Description: Kloofing, or canyoning, involves navigating through a gorge by hiking, swimming, and sometimes cliff jumping. The Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve offers a stunning backdrop for this adventurous activity.
Where to Do It: Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve.
How to Reserve: Join guided kloofing trips with adventure companies such as Cape Canyoning (https://capecanyoning.com/) or AfriCanyon (https://www.africanyon.com/).
Paragliding from Signal Hill or Lion's Head:
Description: Soar above Cape Town with a tandem paragliding experience, taking off from iconic locations like Signal Hill or Lion's Head. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, Table Mountain, and the coastline.
Where to Do It: Signal Hill or Lion's Head.
How to Reserve: Book your paragliding adventure with companies like Cape Town Tandem Paragliding (https://tandemparaglide.com/) or Fly Cape Town Paragliding (https://www.flycapetown.co.za/).
Sandboarding in Atlantis Dunes:
Description: Experience the thrill of sliding down the Atlantis Dunes, an otherworldly landscape of white sand dunes just outside Cape Town, on a sandboard.
Where to Do It: Atlantis Dunes.
How to Reserve: Organize your sandboarding adventure with companies like 4x4 Action Adventures (https://www.4x4actionadventures.co.za/) or Cape Xtreme (https://cape-xtreme.com/).
Cape Point Cycling Tour:
Description: Embark on a cycling adventure through the scenic Cape Peninsula, exploring landmarks like Cape Point, Chapman's Peak Drive, and the coastal beauty of the area.
Where to Do It: Cape Peninsula.
How to Reserve: Book a guided cycling tour with companies like AWOL Tours (https://www.awoltours.co.za/) or Bikes 'n Wines (https://bikesnwines.com/).
👉🏼 Thailand
Welcome to Thailand, the land of smiles nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, where the warm tropical breeze matches the friendliness of the locals 💞 Located on the Indochinese Peninsula, Thailand boasts a history as colorful as its vibrant street markets.
From ancient temples that have weathered centuries to the modern hustle and bustle of Bangkok, there's something for everyone. But hold on to your tuk-tuk hat because Thailand isn't just about serene beaches and tasty street food; it's a haven for thrill seekers too. Whether you're zip-lining through lush rainforests, riding an elephant (gently, of course), or daring the chaotic streets of Bangkok on a motorbike, Thailand knows how to give your adrenaline a friendly nudge.
So, what options do you have?
Well…
Zip-lining in Chiang Mai:
Description: Soar through the lush jungles of Chiang Mai on a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Experience an adrenaline rush as you glide from platform to platform, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest.
Where to Do It: Flight of the Gibbon (https://www.treetopasia.com/).
Rock Climbing in Railay Beach:
Description: Test your climbing skills on the stunning limestone cliffs of Railay Beach. With various routes catering to different skill levels, this is a rock climber's paradise with breathtaking coastal views.
Where to Do It: King Climbers (https://www.kingclimbers.com/).
Scuba Diving in the Similan Islands:
Description: Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Similan Islands, renowned for crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. From colorful coral reefs to encounters with sharks and rays, it's a scuba diver's dream.
Where to Do It: Similan Diving Tours (https://www.similan-diving-safaris.com/).
White Water Rafting in Pai:
Description: Navigate the exhilarating Pai River on a white-water rafting expedition. Tackle thrilling rapids surrounded by lush landscapes, offering both excitement and natural beauty.
Where to Do It: Adventure Quest Thailand (https://www.adventurequestthailand.com/).
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai:
Description: Have an ethical and exhilarating encounter with elephants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Feed, bathe, and interact with these majestic creatures in a responsible and sustainable environment.
Where to Do It: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (https://elephantjunglesanctuary.com/).
Motorbike Touring in Northern Thailand:
Description: Embark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the winding roads of Northern Thailand, exploring picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and cultural gems.
Where to Do It: GT Rider Motorcycle Tours (https://www.gt-rider.com/).
So, did any one of these locations or activities stick out to you?
Was it the white water rafting in Thailand that peaked your interest? Or did hiking up a volcano in Costa Rica sound more up your alley?
In any case, visiting any one of these countries and participating in one of (or all, you daredevil you 😉) these awesome activities will create some truly precious memories, and some sick Instagram posts 😝
Planning out a trip like this takes lots of time and energy though, maybe you’d want some help with that…?
Well, you’re literally on our website, so you know who to contact 📩
Hint: There’s a little button on the top right hand corner labeled, “plan my trip”. Click it, and we’ll take it from there 😌✨